Action packed Halloween in store in Cookstown

There are no tricks, but plenty of treats in store when Cookstown hosts its major Halloween event next weekend.

Mid Ulster Sports Arena hosts the fun on Friday 30th October from 6.30pm – 8pm when hundreds of people are expected to gather to enjoy some scary antics on the ground, before the fireworks burst, whirl, twist, spin, spurt and spiral across the dark sky.

Halloween in Cookstown

For the kids there are free spooky arts activities with Over the Moon, where you can create your very own scary mask; Jumping Clay; Jolly Sands, face painting; and balloon modelling taking place inside a covered marquee.

There’ll also be outside entertainment provided by amazing fire jugglers and the Caroline Creggan Dance School. Inside the outdoor arena, you can take part in spooky story telling with Steve Lally. For the little (and not so little) ones there will a fancy dress competition with prizes for the best dressed, and a Caterpillar Train operating from 6.30pm – 7.30pm.

You can also sample food provided by Bon Appetit or buy a treat from the pop up toy shop and chocolate fountain stall. The grand finale of course is the highlight of the evening, the annual Fireworks Display at 8pm.

The best vantage point to see the fireworks and to get into the Halloween fun is at the Mid Ulster Sports Arena car park, where car parking will be available from 6pm. Those attending the fireworks are advised to arrive early to get parked and find a good spot to enjoy the display as the fireworks will be set off at 8pm sharp. On the night please be aware of the traffic system in place. People attending the event will gain access only from Mid Ulster Sports Arena and don’t forget to wrap up warm!

For the kids there are free spooky arts activities with Over the Moon, where you can create your very own scary mask; Jumping Clay; Jolly Sands, face painting; and balloon modelling taking place inside a covered marquee.

The event is being organised by Mid Ulster District Council and admission is free. For more information on the event contact the Mid Ulster Sports Arena on 028 8676 7135.

To find out about Halloween events across Mid Ulster, including fireworks displays in Maghera, Coalisland, and Dungannon, visit www.midulstercouncil.org/halloween.

Meanwhile, Mid Ulster Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) and the PSNI are urging local people to keep their Halloween celebrations safe and social.

The message comes in the run up to Halloween when reports of anti-social behaviour tend to increase in line with the use of fireworks, which cannot be used without a licence.

Halloween in Cookstown

Inspector Keith Jamieson said: “Not everyone enjoys the sound of fireworks, and letting off fireworks in public places is irresponsible and dangerous.

“Police often have high visibility patrols operating in hotspot areas to prevent crimes occurring. What might seem like a prank to some young people may actually amount to carrying out an assault or causing criminal damage. Those involved in this type of behaviour will have to face the consequences.”

Chair of the Mid Ulster PCSP, Councillor Phelim Gildernew, said: “We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable Halloween but for some people this time of the year can be a nuisance, as evenings are interrupted with trick or treaters and noise.

“We’re encouraging everyone to be sensitive, sensible and safe. For example, parents should always go with their children if they’re out knocking on doors and only call at houses where there’ll be a welcome. If you’re having a bonfire, make sure you keep it well away from adjoining properties and don’t use potentially toxic material such as tyres.

“And remember, fireworks can be fun, but aren’t always so enjoyable for the elderly, pets and farm animals, so we are appealing to everyone to stay safe and act responsibly.”

For tips on having a safe Halloween visit www.midulstercouncil.org/scarybutsafe and to find out what’s on visit www.midulstercouncil.org/halloween.